Feasibility of Cervical Cancer Screening in Developing Countries: Editorial

Abstract

Cervical cancer ranks among the leading causes of death worldwide [1]. Cervical cancer remains a significant global health challenge, with 570,000 new cases reported in 2018 and an age-standardized mortality rate of 6.9 per 100,000 [2]. As of 2020, there were approximately 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths from cervical cancer globally [3]. The burden of cervical cancer is not evenly distributed, with a disproportionately high incidence and mortality rate in low- and middle-income countries (85-90%) where access to healthcare, including screening and treatment, is limited [4,5]. Inadequate infrastructure, a lack of access to preventive HPV vaccines, screening, and treatment, as well as a shortage of trained professionals and training opportunities in these countries, impede efforts to reduce incidence and death [4]. Apart from deaths, cervical cancer can profoundly impact women's lives, leading to physical and emotional suffering and negatively affecting families and communities.